Geneva show: Honda gets Jazzy with EV

HONDA will preview its forthcoming electric version of the Jazz when it reveals this concept vehicle at the Geneva motor show on March 1.

Called simply the Honda EV Concept, the electric vehicle is based on the regular five-door Jazz, which is called Fit in many overseas markets.

Honda said the EV Concept hints strongly at the direction and styling for the upcoming production Fit/Jazz EV, which will be introduced to the US and Japan in 2012.

It employs a development of the three-mode electric drive system from the sporty Honda CR-Z – the world’s first six-speed manual hybrid coupe – and is said to be capable of achieving a useful driving range of 160km per charge on the US EPA LA4 city cycle.

The new Jazz Hybrid will also be shown in full production specification before going on sale later in the month in many markets.

Honda will also display a prototype charging stand alongside the EV Concept at Geneva, providing a glimpse at the future of an electric-charging infrastructure that the company claims will be easy to use and intuitive for consumers.

From top: Honda FC-X Clarity, Honda CR-Z Hybrid and Honda Insight.

Also being displayed at Geneva will be a platform for mid-size plug-in hybrid vehicles employing Honda’s next-generation, two-motor hybrid technology set to also debut in 2012.

The Honda two-motor system continuously moves through three different modes to maximise driving efficiency – all-electric, petrol-electric and an engine direct-drive mode – and also uses regenerative braking to charge the battery.

It is part of Honda’s “Road to Zero Emissions” display, illustrating the current technology of hybrids alongside the near-future technology of plug-in vehicles and the ultimate goal of fuel cell EVs, like Honda’s own FCX Clarity.

Honda says both the EV Concept and the plug-in hybrid are integral to the company’s comprehensive approach to reducing CO2 emissions through innovative products, energy-management and energy-production technologies.